Eating Disorders

What are Eating Disorders? In our body-conscious culture, most of us are guilty of obsessing about how we look from time to time. But when those thoughts lead to drastic attempts to lose weight and a total...

In our body-conscious culture, most of us are guilty of obsessing about how we look from time to time. But when those thoughts lead to drastic attempts to lose weight and a total preoccupation with food, it’s considering an eating disorder.

The main types of eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder. People with anorexia try extremely hard get to a very low body weight, often by starving themselves. They have an intense fear of gaining weight and may exercise compulsively and abuse laxatives. Unlike people with anorexia, those with bulimia eat massive amounts of food quickly (known as binging), and try to get rid of the extra calories by vomiting (a.k.a. purging) or over-exercising. Binge eating disorder, which is just as common in men as in women, means that someone eats excessive amounts of food, but doesn’t try to exercise or purge like someone with bulimia might.

If you are struggling with an eating disorder, know that you are not alone. It’s estimated that up to 24 million Americans are suffering from an eating disorder. Since eating disorders are more likely to end in death than any other mental health condition, it’s critical to get support.

What are the warning signs?

Skipping meals or making excuses for not eating

Adopting an overly restrictive vegetarian diet

Withdrawing from normal social activities

Persistent worry or complaining about being fat and talk of losing weight

Frequent checking in the mirror for perceived flaws

Repeatedly eating large amounts of sweets or high-fat foods

Use of dietary supplements, laxatives or herbal products for weight loss

Treatment for eating disorders usually involves a combination of therapy, nutrition education, medication, and sometimes hospitalization. You can call The National Eating Disorders Association at 1-800-931-2237 or chat online for support and to learn about treatment options.

During school days, I only eat one meal a day and it’s dinner because I know my parents would question why I don’t eat dinner. I don’t eat breakfast or lunch but I’m not anorexic. I’m still a “healthy” weight even if I do feel fat. If anything, I should be gaining more weight I think but I want to lose weight. Do I have an eating disorder? I know for sure I’m not anorexic but…

Katherine, ti. hank you for reaching out to our community. We’re here for those struggling through any situation, including questions about eating issues. We want to help you through this difficult time. Please call any time at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).